Police make a Dozen Arrests after Protests Boil Over in Ithaca

Ithaca police arrested 12 adult and juvenile protesters, after demonstrations that began with marching on Wednesday culminated into an occupation of the Chase Bank on East State Street just before noon yesterday (February 12-13).

That led to several hours of chaotic disruption before police decided to step in.

“This was part of a national protest,” said Sr. Deputy Police Chief Vincent Monticello. “The protesters were given many opportunities to leave the bank after speaking with bank officials and law enforcement over the course of several hours, but refused to leave.”

Demonstrations over an oil pipeline proposal in British Columbia began Wednesday with organized marching that blocked traffic for several hours in a busy section of the city’s downtown area, along South Cayuga and East Green Streets.

Ultimately, eight adults were arrested and charged with misdemeanor trespassing. Each is now being processed and will be released upon their arraignment in Ithaca City Court on February 26.

The adults are currently being processed and will be released pending arraignment in Ithaca City Court on February 26.

Ithaca police were assisted with yesterday’s events by members of the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Department and New York State Police.